Pittwater Online News

2026 People of Post Grant recipients includes Sargood on Collaroy Community BBQ program + Aussie Hero Quilts

2023 special presentation of a hand made quilt and laundry bag being presented to Sub Branch Member Skye Smith by Jan-Maree Ball, founder of Aussie Heroes Quilts. Photos: AJG/PON

On April 29 2026 Australia Post announced it has awarded almost $500,000 in grants to 251 grassroots community organisations across the country through its 2026 People of Post program; supporting initiatives focused on mental health, disaster support, literacy and the environment. 

The New South Wales Grants includes the Sargood on Collaroy Community BBQ program for people living with spinal cord injury and Aussie Hero Quilts, which residents may recall was founded by Jan-Maree Ball, who has gifted these beautiful quilts to locals, including Avalon Beach RSL Sub Branch dynamo, Skye Smith during the 75th Anniversary Celebration of that Sub Branch.

"There are three main reasons I feel the need to do something to give back to our Defence Force. I started Aussie Heroes for a number of reasons – I hated the way our Vietnam Veterans were treated.  That can never be allowed to happen again.  I heard of an Aussie soldier being given a quilt by the Americans in Germany and was ashamed that there was not an Aussie Quilt for him.  He now has one of ours and I have since met him and his wife a couple of times and they tell me that he uses his quilt all the time.  Finally, I just felt that we, the Aussie public, needed a way to say thank you to our Defence members for their service. 

Aussie Heroes has been up and running since January 2012 but it began with me sending quilts and laundry bags, with the help of my quilt group, to one particular soldier and his team in late 2011.  

I came across this fellow through his wife's blog and reached out to them to see if there was something I could to make his deployment a bit easier. He felt a really useful gift would be a laundry bag.  Sounds like such a little thing doesn't it?  Well not so.  You see the serving personnel were all using the same laundry bags an that made it hard to find their own laundry bag in a hurry when they wanted it. Apparently emails go around each day saying “someone picked up my laundry bag”.  This soldier's wife made her husband a colourful one with large initials and the problem was solved for him.....but what of his men?  So, Laundry Bags it was.

I convinced my quilt group, to come on board and we decided to make 15 very durable laundry bags in time for Christmas!  It was already the third week in October. 

As it gets down to -25ºC in Afghanistan in winter we also decided to make quilts.  I designed a very basic strip quilt and we got cutting and sewing and ended up making 24 quilts.  All the parcels were sent off in November 2011. The laundry bags and 15 of the quilts went to the Warrant Officer and his team and the extra quilts were passed on to others at the Warrant Officer’s discretion.

We received such a heart warming response to the first lot of quilts that we set about sending a few more to friends of those that received the first lot as well as to any other soldiers we heard about. 

By the end of December it was obvious to me that there was enough support out there to turn this into an Australia wide proposition.  On January 1st I launched the dedicated blog aussieheroquilts.blogspot.com.au and after much thought and a lot of supportive comments I decided to launch a Facebook page as well.

Aussie Hero Quilts (and Laundry Bags) has continued to grow steadily.  By the end of February 2014 we had sent nearly 2500 quilts and over 3900 laundry bags."

As of April 15th, 2016, Aussie Heroes Quilts had sent 930 laundry bags, bringing their total for these to 8750 since the initiative started, and 454 quilts have been sent, bringing the total for these to over 5699 quilts. These go to places such as Afghanistan, Dubai, South Sudan, and Egypt or meet RAN ships at docks around the world.

Sargood on Collaroy Community BBQ program

The Sargood on Collaroy Community BBQ program is a regular social event designed to bring together people living with spinal cord injury (SCI), their families, and carers in a supportive, accessible environment. Held at the Sargood on Collaroy resort in NSW, these events are a key part of the venue’s mission to promote social interaction and peer support. 

Program Details are:

• Purpose: To offer a free, relaxed, and accessible space for the SCI community to reconnect with friends, share experiences, and network.
• Frequency: Monthly "Social Saturday" BBQs are frequently scheduled.
• Location: 1 Brissenden Ave, Collaroy NSW 2097.
• Cost: Generally free, though registration is often required through the Sargood website. 

New research, commissioned by Australia Post, reveals that community investment is a growing priority for Australian organisations, with almost half of ESG decision makers identifying it as a core pillar of their ESG strategy and almost two-thirds revealing their organisation has increased community investment over the past three years. 

The research, which explored Australian ESG decision makers’ community investment strategies and priorities, found that Australian businesses are prioritising investment in environment or sustainability (65%), mental health (64%) and community connection (57%). Australia Post has a similar focus, with more than half of this year’s People of Post nominations supporting mental health initiatives. 

The People of Post program is an employee-led initiative empowering its 64,000 team members to nominate local community groups for a grant of up to $2,000. Since launching nine years ago, the program has delivered more than $2.4 million in grants to over 2,400 not-for-profit community organisations nationwide.  

This year, 251 grants were awarded across Australia, with 140 in metro, 98 in rural and 13 in remote communities.

Australia Post General Manager of Community and Stakeholder Engagement, Nicky Tracey, said the program demonstrates the power of employee-led giving. 

“What makes People of Post grants so impactful is that it enables our team members to support local organisations that are making a real difference in their community. Our research shows employee-led giving strengthens workplace culture and engagement, while delivering meaningful outcomes for communities, which is something we see reflected across our own team members,” said Ms Tracey.  

Sydney-based Australia Post team member Clare Loney nominated local grant recipient OzED, which supports people living with Ectodermal Dysplasia, a rare genetic disorder.

“I chose to support OzED because of the vital role they play in empowering people living with this condition to feel seen, supported and connected. 

“It’s a small organisation making a big difference, raising awareness of a condition that impacts so many aspects of daily life – from hair, skin and teeth to eyes and glands. Through Australia Post’s People of Post grants, I’m proud to champion an organisation that is changing lives, building understanding and ensuring no one navigating this disorder has to do so alone,” Ms Loney said.  

The research also revealed when it comes to the business outcomes most associated with strong community investment; brand trust and reputation, customer loyalty, and employee engagement identified as the top impacts. However, for a quarter of organisations, identifying the right initiatives remains a key barrier alongside budget constraints, highlighting the importance of a clear and focused community strategy.  

“Our community strategy gives us clarity about where we can have the greatest impact, and that’s brought to life by our people. It’s fantastic to see our team members champion causes that matter to them while helping build a genuine culture of community support and giving,” Ms Tracey added. 

The full list of Australia Post’s 2026 People of Post Grants recipients, listed by state/territory, and more information is available at auspost.com.au/popgrants.

The full list for NSW is:

Albury Women's Shed, Joining Techniques for Basic Furniture Making 

Albury Women’s Shed, based in the border community of Albury Wodonga, will support women’s mental wellbeing, confidence and social connection through hands‑on woodworking and creative programs. Grant funding will support tutoring in joining techniques for basic furniture making and the purchase of woodworking materials, creating a safe, welcoming space where women can build skills, resilience and connection together. 

Aussie Hero Quilts, Post to Quilts 

Aussie Hero Quilts supports current and former ADF members by providing comfort and practical support during deployment, recovery and hardship. Through a national network of volunteers, handmade quilts and laundry bags are created to acknowledge and honour their service. The grant will help cover the cost of fabric and materials, enabling volunteers to continue this meaningful work. 

Backtrack Youth Works, BackTrack Disaster Recovery Crews: Youth-Led Community Recovery 

BackTrack Youth Works Disaster Recovery Crews provide rapid, practical support to communities impacted by natural disasters while creating paid employment and skills pathways for young people facing barriers to work. As disasters increase, communities need trained crews who can respond quickly without adding pressure to local resources.The grant will support a four‑person crew for two days deployment, covering essential costs such as vehicles, fuel, machinery hire, food and supplies, enabling swift and independent disaster recovery support. 

Bankstown Canterbury Community Transport, Secret Men's Business Shoalhaven Trip 

Bankstown Canterbury Communty transport will deliver the Secret Men's Business - Shoalhaven Trip. The activity will support the wellbeing of senior men through a shared overnight experience focused on connection and conversation in a relaxed setting. By spending time together, sharing meals and local experiences—the project will help reduce social isolation, and strengthen ongoing social connections. 

Bega And District Poultry Club, Education Days  

The Bega and District Poultry Club will deliver a series of education days for backyard and hobby poultry keepers. Participants will learn about breed selection, housing and ongoing care. Beyond practical skills, the program prioritises mental health by creating a welcoming space for social connection, shared purpose and peer support—helping participants build friendships, reduce isolation and improve wellbeing through a shared interest. 

Border Ranges-Richmond Valley Landcare Network, Supporting the Revegetation of the Wildlife Corridor along the Northern Rivers Rail Trail 

Border Ranges Richmond Valley Landcare Network will train volunteers in weed identification to support revegetation along the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. The grant will purchase signage and a bike cargo trailer to transport tools, safety equipment and supplies, improving on‑site logistics, volunteer capability and wildlife corridor restoration. 

Boys to the Bush, Public Camps 

Boys to the Bush is a not-for-profit organisation that provides camps for disengaged young males to improve their mental health, build resilience, and develop essential life skills through hands-on activities and mentoring. The funds will be used for facilitation, equipment, and food to support these camps, which aim to remove boys from negative influences and help them reconnect with themselves, others, and nature. 

Buddharangsee Thai Community Language School, Traditional Thai Singing and Games Workshop 

Buddharangsee Thai Community Language School will strengthen cultural identity, language skills and mental wellbeing for children of Thai heritage through shared, family‑inclusive cultural learning. Grant funding will deliver a workshop using traditional Thai singing and group games, covering venue hire, equipment, Thai dishes, desserts and beverages to build connection, teamwork, emotional regulation and healthy, screen‑free interaction in a welcoming community setting. 

Creativity Australia, With One Voice Riverina 

With One Voice Riverina addresses social isolation and limited access to arts programs in regional communities by creating an inclusive weekly singing space that builds connection, reduces stress and strengthens belonging. The grant will fund a portable projector and screen, sheet music and subsidised memberships to support disadvanted community members singing in the Riverina region. 

Danger Island Rural Fire Brigade, Community Emergency Response Plan 

Dangar Island Rural Fire Brigade will strengthen disaster preparedness in its remote, boat‑access‑only community by improving communication during emergencies. Grant funding will purchase handheld analogue fireground radios to support a coordinated Community Emergency Response Plan across local volunteer groups, helping keep residents informed, supported and safe. 

Deniliquin CWA, Winter Warmers 

Deniliquin CWA will support vulnerable children and families facing cost‑of‑living pressures, domestic violence and other challenges by creating and distributing Winter Warmer clothing packs for children aged 0–16. While the grant funds the essential clothing items, CWA members come together through the shared collection and packing of the kits, strengthening social connection, reducing isolation and building wellbeing among volunteers while supporting the mental health of the wider community through care and awareness of local vulnerabilities. 

Drake Village Women's Shed, Strung Out - Fun, Focus, Calm and Laughter 

Drake Village Women’s Shed will deliver Strung Out – Fun, Focus, Calm and Laughter, a series of facilitated String Art workshops to support women’s mental health and emotional wellbeing. The workshops support adult learning and stress reduction. In the remote community of Drake Village, the project will reduce social isolation by providing a safe, supportive space for women to connect, build skills and strengthen community bonds. 

Earthcare Land Group, Native Bee Regeneration 

Earthcare Park Land Group's "Native Bee Regeneration" project focuses on engaging the community in environmental activities and education on native bee regeneration. Funds will be used for education, training and the construction of bee boxes. 

Engadine RSL Sub Branch, ANZAC Care Package Project 

Engadine RSL sub‑Branch will strengthen local volunteering and community connection through its ANZAC Care Package Project, bringing together residents, families and schools to write messages of support, and pack and send care packages. The project creates a shared community activity that builds connection, civic participation and a strong sense of belonging while extending messages of care to Australian Defence Force personnel deployed overseas. 

Kulai Preschool Aboriginal Corporation, Balmuun Junuybin Gumbaynggirr Wajaarrda (Strong Children on Gumbaynggirr Country)

Kulai Preschool Aboriginal Corporation will strengthen early literacy, belonging and cultural connection for Aboriginal children and families through Gumbaynggirr language learning. Grant funding will support the design, printing and production of culturally grounded Gumbaynggirr language resources for use across preschool and playgroup programs.

Kempsey Children's Services, Bringing Circle of Security Parenting to the Community 

Kempsey Children’s Services supports families experiencing stress, isolation and mental health challenges by strengthening parent–child relationships and community connection. Grant funding will deliver an eight‑week Circle of Security Parenting program, creating a safe group space that builds parental confidence, resilience and long‑term wellbeing for children and families. 

Lalor Park Community Garden, Cultivating a Greener Community 

Lalor Park Community Garden supports local residents, volunteers and visiting school and kindergarten groups by providing a safe, welcoming and sustainable space for connection, learning and food growing. The grant will fund the replacement of ageing gardening tools, equipment and materials to revitalise and maintain the volunteer‑run garden for ongoing community use. 

Little Plains Hall, Food Connection Program 

Little Plain Hall will strengthen social connection and mental wellbeing in the remote community of Elands by bringing people of all ages together through shared meals and food‑based activities. Grant funding will deliver the Community Food Connection Program, supporting regular community lunches, volunteering and skill‑sharing that reduce isolation and builds belonging. 

Marine Rescue Cape Byron Unit, Monitored Fire Alarm  

Marine Rescue Cape Byron Unit will strengthen marine safety and ensure the continuity of critical emergency response services by reducing the risk of undetected fire at its operational base and protecting vital rescue and communications equipment. Grant funding will support the installation of a monitored fire alarm system, safeguarding facilities that support search and rescue operations for local residents, visitors and the broader Northern Rivers coastal community. 

Mary Queen Of The Family Blacktown, Be The Witness Musical 

Mary Queen of the Family Blacktown will enhance connection and a sense of belonging across Western Sydney through Be The Witness, a community‑led musical that harnesses creative expression to bring people together. Grant funding will support catering and marketing for the performance, helping the project reach and engage the wider community. In response to increasing social isolation and declining mental wellbeing—particularly among young people and families—this initiative offers an accessible, inclusive opportunity for creative participation. Be The Witness aims to strengthen social bonds, foster resilience, reduce isolation, and support positive mental health, building a joyful and supportive community where wellbeing is actively nurtured. 

Millthorpe Rural Fire Service, Fireground radios 

Millthorpe Rural Fire Service relies on clear and reliable communication to ensure volunteer firefighters can respond safely and effectively during emergency incidents, particularly in rural and high‑risk conditions. The grant will fund the purchase of new VHF radios, improving on‑scene communication and enhancing the safety of firefighters and the wider community. 

Muogamarra Rural Fire Brigade, Firetruck Power Tools 

Muogamarra Rural Fire Brigade will equip its fire trucks with battery‑powered hand tools to help volunteers respond more quickly and safely to emergencies such as bushfires, vehicle incidents, and storm events. The project will reduce manual handling risks, improve on‑scene efficiency, and strengthen the brigade’s capacity to protect the community during disasters. 

North Albury Auskick, Participation Project 

North Albury All Abilities Auskick is an inclusive version of the AFL Auskick program, designed to support children of all abilities including those with a disability, additional needs or who benefit from a more flexible supportive environment. The grant will enable the purchase of equipment, uniforms and delivery of modified inclusive sessions to help build confidence, connection and participation. 

North Entrance Surf Life Saving Club, Lifeline Mental Health Training Program 

North Entrance Surf Life Saving Club will host a two‑day Lifeline Mental Health Training Program to build community capacity by equipping members and locals with the skills and confidence to recognise and respond to mental health challenges. The program strengthens awareness, connection and wellbeing across the local community. 

Older Women's Network New South Wales, Connecting Circles: Wellbeing & Friendships for Older Women 

Older Women’s Network Sydney will use the grant to deliver 'Connecting Circles: Wellbeing & Friendships for Older Women' which is a community project supporting social connection and mental wellbeing among older women in Sydney. Through shared cultural experiences, including visits to the National Monument to Migration and the Chinese Australian Museum, participants will reflect on diversity, migration and community. The project concludes with a facilitated lunch and conversation at Newtown Wellness Centre, helping build friendships, reduce isolation and strengthen ongoing connection. 

Orana Community Centre, Nothing like Home Grown 

Orana Community Centre will bring together isolated community members to build connections, strengthen mental wellbeing, and develop low‑cost food‑growing skills that support healthier and more sustainable lifestyles. The grant will enable the purchase of materials to establish sustainable garden beds, providing hands‑on learning opportunities in growing fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables. Participants will be supported to apply these skills at home, building lasting knowledge in sustainability and healthy living. 

Port Macquarie Womens Shed, Renew & Modernise Equipment at the Women's Shed 

Port Macquarie Women’s Shed supports women to build skills, strengthen mental wellbeing and enhance social connection through participation in woodwork workshops and projects. The grant will fund the replacement and modernisation of ageing woodwork equipment to ensure members can participate safely and confidently. 

PosAbilities. Strong Minds: Strong Futures, Sensory Retreat 

PosAbilities. Strong Minds: Strong Futures will deliver the Sensory Retreat, a designated sensory space that supports young autistic adults to self‑regulate during periods of overwhelm so they can return to learning and work‑skill development. The grant will be used to create and equip this dedicated sensory environment, promoting mental wellbeing, independence, and successful participation as participants transition into the workforce. 

Psychiatric Service Dog Association (NSW), A Practical Guide to Welcoming Assistance Dog Teams 

Psychiatric Service Dog Association (NSW) mindDog improves understanding of psychiatric assistance dogs and reduces stigma for people living with invisible mental health conditions by helping businesses and community organisations create safer, more respectful and inclusive environments. The grant will fund the development, design and printing of a practical guide explaining the role of psychiatric assistance dogs, respectful interaction, access rights and responsibilities, and inclusive practice. 

Red Earth Ecology, Threads of Connection - Therapeutic Weaving for Wellbeing, Ageing, and Change 

Red Earth Ecology will deliver therapeutic weaving workshops at a community mental health centre and an aged care facility, providing accessible, creative mental health support that reduces isolation and fosters connection and wellbeing. The grant will cover materials, facilitation and shared morning teas. 

Red Head Villages, The 5 Villages Disaster Preparedness and Community Resilience Project 

Red Head Villages will strengthen disaster preparedness across five South Coast villages in the Shoalhaven region. Guided by the Australian Red Cross Community‑Led Resilience Teams model, the project will build community connection, improve access to emergency information and support vulnerable residents through local information sessions and resilience‑building events. The grant will fund promotional materials, catering and equpiment to support the delivery of the disaster preparedness sessions and events. 

Riding For The Disabled Association NSW The Ryde Centre, Sun, Wind and Cold Protection 

Riding for the Disabled Association Centre delivers therapeutic horse riding and horse‑related activities for people with disability, supported by volunteers. Grant funding will be used to replace essential summer and winter rugs for the centre’s eight horses, to protect horse health and sustain program delivery. 

Riding For The Disabled Tall Timbers Centre, Tall Timbers Mane Support Network 

Riding For The Disabled Tall Timbers Centre (NSW) will deliver the 'The Tall Timbers Mane Support Network project' to support parents and carers of children with disability by strengthening peer connection. Through regular, Centre‑based social activities, families will connect, share experiences and build supportive relationships, reducing social isolation and supporting mental wellbeing. 

River Region Early Education, Inclusive Group Learning Centres - Providing Technology Resources To Include And Engage All Children 

River Region Early Education (Deniliquin Preschool) will strengthen early literacy, cultural understanding and inclusion through shared storytelling and language experiences reflecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives. The grant will fund technology based learning tools which build inclusion by enabling children to engage with interactive Indigenous language and storytelling activities and increase their communication confidence. 

Solace Association NSW, Specialist Facilitator Training for Local and Rural Online Grief Share Support Groups 

Solace Association NSW will deliver intensive training for volunteer facilitators managing Grief Share support groups for widowed community members, including those in rural and remote areas. The grant will fund specialist trainers, venue hire, and training materials to ensure volunteers can safely manage complex grief, crisis situations, and hybrid group delivery. 

Stepping Out Housing Program, Social Inclusion for Women Survivors of Sexual Violence 

The Stepping Out Program supports the mental health and wellbeing of adult women survivors of child sexual abuse by reducing isolation and building safe, supportive community connection. Grant funding will support group activities by purchasing art materials, food, beverages and pantry vouchers. 

Sydney Roller Derby League, Skating Connections: supporting diversity within SRDL 

Sydney Roller Derby League supports positive mental‑health outcomes by providing safe, inclusive roller derby training that reduces isolation and builds confidence, resilience and community—particularly for LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent members. The grant will fund venue hire at the Bass Hill Velodrome to ensure consistent access for members aged 16+. 

The Formal Project Bloom, Bloom with Love, No Child Left Behind 

The Formal Project Bloom supports vulnerable children and young people to attend school with dignity, confidence and a sense of belonging, protecting mental health and engagement in learning. Grant funding will provide school shoes and uniforms. 

The Sargood Foundation, Sargood on Collaroy Community BBQ program for people living with spinal cord injury 

The Sargood Foundation will bring together people living with a life‑changing spinal cord injury through their Community BBQ program - a warm, supportive environment where shared lived experience enables peer support, the exchange of tips and advice, and the development of friendships and social connections. Grant funds will be used for family activities and entertainment at the BBQs. 

Tyalgum District Community, Tyalgum Resilience Team 

Tyalgum District Community is addressing critical safety and communication challenges faced by the Tyalgum community during flood and fire events, particularly for residents in flood‑isolated areas. The grant will support seven local Area Coordinators with resilience kits containing power stations, torches and first aid supplies, helping maintain communication and safety during flood and fire events. The project will strengthen emergency preparedness and local coordination, supporting the community.

Unida Australia Church, Youth Mental Resilience & Leadership Program 

Unida Australia Church will deliver the 'Youth Mental Resilience & Leadership Program', a community initiative supporting young people aged 13–25 to strengthen their mental wellbeing. The program aims to build emotional resilience, stress management and leadership skills through practical workshops, mentoring and peer support. Participants will also take part in small community projects that build confidence and encourage positive community contribution. 

Volunteer Marine Rescue - Point Danger Unit, MRPD - Handheld FLIR Scout Pro Thermal Camera 

Marine Rescue Point Danger Unit requires enhanced night‑time and low‑visibility capability to support volunteers during search and rescue operations at sea and during local flooding and disaster events. The grant will be used to purchase a handheld FLIR thermal night‑vision camera, which can be utilised onboard rescue vessels, during search and rescue missions, and as part of State Operations Group (SOG) deployments under SES. This equipment will enable volunteers to detect heat signatures and locate people in the water, strengthening response capability and helping to save lives. 

Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW - Newcastle Unit, Equipment for the Unit’s Search and Rescue and Training capabilities. 

Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW - Newcastle Unit will strengthen emergency response capability and improve safety for the boating community by enhancing volunteer training and radio‑monitoring efficiency during search and rescue and disaster response operations. Grant funding will support the purchase of computer monitors and wireless headsets, enabling clearer communications, more effective training delivery and faster, more coordinated responses to emergencies on the water. 

Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW - Port Jackson Unit, Project Safe Steer 

Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW - Port Jackson Unit provides essential 24/7 emergency response capability by assisting boaters across the harbour and adjoining offshore waters. The grant will replace critical, end‑of‑life steering components on a frontline rescue vessel to restore safe and reliable manoeuvrability on Sydney Harbour. The upgrade will strengthen disaster response capability by enabling faster, safer rescue operations in one of Australia’s busiest and most complex waterways. 

Wauchope District Rugby League Football Club, Mental Health Round BBQ 

Wauchope District Rugby League Football Club will promote mental health, emotional wellbeing and community connection by creating safe, visible opportunities for conversation and support through a Mental Health Round linked to the 2026 Indigenous All Stars game. The grant will fund event delivery, including advertising, venue hire and a shared match‑day BBQ, helping normalise mental‑health discussions and strengthen community support networks. 

Wauchope Public School P&C, Indigenous Literacy 

Wauchope Public School P&C will support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students’ literacy, confidence and lifelong learning by increasing access to engaging, identity‑affirming stories across the school community. Grant funding will expand classroom and library collections with high‑quality books by Indigenous authors and illustrators. 

West Wyalong Scouts Branch, Bushcraft Survival Camp 

West Wyalong Scouts will deliver a regional bushcraft survival camp to support youth mental health and resilience by building confidence, teamwork and social connection through hands‑on outdoor experiences. The grant will cover food, equipment, fuel and materials for camp activities. 

West Wyalong Town Band, New music and regional workshop for West Wyalong Town Band 

West Wyalong Town Band supports positive mental health in regional communities by reducing isolation and strengthening connection through shared music‑making and cultural participation. Grant funding will purchase music arrangements and deliver a regional workshop that brings musicians together and enables free community performances.